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Fresh Mini Caprese Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade Balsamic Glaze Appetizer

fresh mini caprese skewers - featured image

These fresh mini Caprese skewers combine creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a homemade balsamic glaze for a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 cherry tomatoes, halved if large
  • 20 small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
  • 20 fresh basil leaves, washed and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for sweetness in the glaze)
  • About 20 wooden or bamboo mini skewers (soaked in water for 10 minutes if grilling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the balsamic glaze: Pour ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar if desired. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally. Simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until reduced by half and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Prep the ingredients: Rinse and dry cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain mozzarella balls well. Place olive oil in a bowl and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Assemble the skewers: Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each mini skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
  4. Toss the skewers: Place assembled skewers in a shallow dish. Drizzle olive oil over them and gently toss to coat evenly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Plate and drizzle: Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top just before serving.
  6. Final touches: Optionally sprinkle sea salt flakes or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use firm, ripe cherry tomatoes to avoid soggy skewers. Drain mozzarella well to prevent excess moisture. Simmer balsamic glaze gently to avoid burning. Assemble skewers up to 4 hours ahead without glaze; add glaze just before serving. Wooden skewers are preferred for presentation and ease of handling. For grilling, soak skewers longer to prevent burning and grill 1-2 minutes per side.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese skewers, appetizer, balsamic glaze, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, party food, finger food